Thank you, Adam Trimingham, for your column (The Argus, September 13) and a heartfelt thank you, Britain, for your thoughts and prayers. We need them.

Thousands of Americans and fellow citizens of the world are dead. Thank God more were not killed. Buildings and symbols can be replaced, people cannot.

What happened is an act of war against the US and the free world and must be addressed or it will happen again and be worse next time.

Like your nation has, mine will stiffen its spine, find a way to shine and get on with life. May God (or Allah) be merciful upon those who are responsible for this act because the US won't be.

Yes, the US is a young nation and a bit clumsy at times. Our growing pains are substantial but we try to do the right thing and do better each day.

We have stood fast and shed our blood with our British brothers and sisters against tyranny and those who believe freedom is only for the elite. Today, we will stand together and for that I am grateful.

Like Britain, the US is resilient and resolute. When attacked, we respond appropriately and in kind. When the fighting is over, we'll be there to help a former enemy get back on its feet and better the world. We'll still do it and focus on the best that is yet to be. It's our common heritage and bloodline.

May God bless the red, white and blue.

-Michael O R Jackson, Iowa, US